New York, 22 September 2025 – The Republic of Fiji has once again underscored the urgent need for renewed global commitment to climate action and stronger support for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
At a high-level side event convened on the margins of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80), Prime Minister Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka emphasised that climate change continues to inflict severe and disproportionate impacts on Fiji and other SIDS, compelling nations to divert scarce resources from development priorities towards rebuilding and recovery efforts.
The event, co-hosted by Palau and Germany, brought together Heads of Government and senior policymakers to deliberate on the pressing challenges at the nexus of climate change, geopolitics, and development finance.
In his address, Prime Minister Rabuka called upon G20 nations to demonstrate leadership in addressing the climate crisis:
“Together, we continue to uphold principled leadership in advocating for stronger and more urgent climate action. As we look towards COP30 in Belem, Brazil, we must remain steadfast in our commitments dating back to 1992 — to hold major emitters accountable, ensure compliance with the Kyoto Protocol, and deliver ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).”
The Prime Minister further underscored the need for genuine partnerships to address debt vulnerabilities, expand access to climate finance, and secure recognition of the unique challenges faced by SIDS within global financial frameworks.
Concluding his remarks, Prime Minister Rabuka reaffirmed Fiji’s unwavering commitment to working in solidarity with the global community to advance urgent, just, and effective climate action.
The event provided an important platform for leaders to exchange perspectives on international climate policy, including the recent ICJ Advisory Opinion, preparations for COP30, and the ongoing challenges of development and climate financing for SIDS.
